Tent campers near Red Lodge, Montana access multiple dispersed camping areas throughout the Custer Gallatin National Forest with elevations typically between 5,500-8,000 feet. Summer overnight temperatures often drop into the 40s even during July and August. Several primitive camping options require traveling unpaved forest roads that become difficult after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access sites: Rosebud Isle Fishing Access Site offers tent camping with direct river access, though availability is limited. "Only 8 spots available. Too close to civilization as we had cell service," notes Thomas F., suggesting early arrival for weekend camping.
Hiking from camp: Initial Creek Campground serves as a starting point for backcountry exploration with established trails. "You can hear the West Fork of the Stillwater River from each site and trails lead down to the river. The trailhead to other hikes is 1 mile up the road," writes Jessica.
Wildlife viewing: The high-elevation camping areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife in natural settings. At Lady of the Lake Trail on Lulu Pass, one camper reported "We truly loved this place. It was so isolated and peaceful. The camp sites are scattered throughout the trails and are not close to each other." Wildlife sightings are common, with another camper noting "we saw a bear, moose and deer."
What campers like
Natural separation: Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site provides well-spaced tent sites with natural barriers. "The campsites are well spaced out with trees, vegetation or roads between each site. The sites themselves are well sized," according to Stacey N., who appreciated the privacy between sites.
Riverside camping: East Boulder Campground offers tent sites directly adjacent to water. A camper described it as "a great place to fish, rock hound and there are some trails very close." Another visitor noted, "The river is beautiful and loved hearing it at night."
Higher elevation options: For tent campers seeking cooler temperatures and remote settings, Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping provides access to the mountains. "Like most people, we had hoped to stay across the street along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. That area has 2 pretty shaded spots, and both were taken. We headed over to Pilot and we were pleasantly surprised," Rebecca B. reports, noting the area has "at least half a dozen wooded spots, setback. Three have bear boxes and are right by a hiking trail."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many of the best tent camping areas near Red Lodge, Montana require travel on unmaintained roads. At Lady of the Lake Trail, a camper warned, "I came up the road which starts out very nice gravel but then gets pretty rough and rocky." The condition limits vehicle types but reduces competition for sites.
Bear safety equipment: Several dispersed camping areas provide bear boxes for food storage. At East Boulder Campground, campers find "a toilet, fire ring, and picnic table" but should follow bear safety protocols. Initial Creek Campground provides additional protection with "a bear proof container" at each of its six sites.
Limited site availability: The most appealing tent camping locations fill quickly. At East Boulder Campground, "There are just 2 sites here but they are spacious and private!" A camper advised, "Both spots were filled on a Sunday night, so try to get there early or on a non weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes: East Boulder Campground offers access to beginner-friendly trails suitable for children. A visitor mentioned "there are some trails very close" to the campground that don't require extensive hiking experience.
Riverside activities: Cliff Swallow provides water access for families seeking cooling off options. One camper shared, "Some algae near the shore of river but waded out deeper for refreshing dip," indicating safe swimming opportunities during summer months.
Wildlife education: Lady of the Lake Trail presents wildlife viewing opportunities that can serve as natural educational experiences. Families should maintain appropriate distance and safety measures, as one camper noted seeing "lots of moose, they are everywhere up there."
Tips for RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Red Lodge have challenging access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. At Swinging Bridge, one camper warned, "Roads are narrow and curved—would not be good for a trailer unless you really knew what you were doing."
Size-appropriate sites: Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping accommodates smaller RVs in specific areas. "Plenty of spots in the grass for big rigs and trailers," noted Lauren C., though she recommended sites away from facilities for better experience.
Weather considerations: Higher elevation camping areas experience significant temperature drops at night. "It was very cold at night even in August," reported one camper at Lady of the Lake Trail, suggesting RVers bring adequate heating options for overnight comfort.
